Landing the first professional position after college has never been easy, but we’re noticing that these days, it’s harder than ever. And judging from recent reports and news headlines, it’s not just here in Denver.
One problem is that many students aren’t pursuing degrees that prepare them well for the ripest opportunities in today’s market, hot jobs in: healthcare administration, finance, accounting, human resources, or business management. While we don’t want to discourage anybody from expanding their horizons or pursuing a subject that inspires them, it’s essential that they also take time to plan what they will do after they graduate.
Often, recent college grads come to Experience Factor with unrealistic salary expectations, fueled in part by university administrators who may be trying to justify expensive tuition. Sometimes grads tells us they simply can’t take less than 50k or 60k, or they’ll default on their student loans. But when they don’t have specialized skills like programming, accounting or engineering, in most cases, the best we can offer them is an entry level, $15 an hour position.
This is better than the minimum wage jobs many college students are working. It’s also a foot in the door and offers the chance to grow with a good company. And for the candidates who are willing to be flexible, and learn all they can from their job, this first position can turn into a rewarding career. For others, it’s a way to pay off loans and time to consider where they want to focus next. We hope this advice is helpful for someone starting college or getting ready to graduate.
Do your research
There is a lot of information online about different jobs and the salaries you can earn. But don’t stop there. Talk to someone who’s already working in a field of interest; find out how they got there, the jobs they started in, the subjects they studied in college, related jobs within the field, and most importantly—the types of skills, personal qualities and experience needed to excel.
Online resource: www.payscale.com
Get work experience
Before you apply for your first job, try and get some practical experience through an internship or summer job. If you want to be an expert on international development, find out what types of expertise are needed by shadowing someone in the field. A lot of companies will train you once you’re hired.
Be flexible and set realistic expectations
Is there a side door into your area of interest? Your heart might be set on working for a non-profit, but getting practical skills in a corporate setting might help serve your bigger dream down the road. If you limit yourself to one line of work, you’ll have a much tougher time. Rather, expand your vision and look for new job opportunities that might overlap with your original plan.
Don’t presume college is for you
As you consider your future, and the careers that interest you, remember there are jobs that don’t require a college degree. Or maybe, you just need a two-year degree. That why it’s so important to talk with college advisors, staffing firms like Experience Factor or better yet, professionals in the field.